How to Use the New Perspective Grid in Adobe Illustrator CS6

In Adobe Illustrator CS6 you can create and edit artwork based on the perspective grid feature (introduced in CS5). The grid is a huge help in creating successful perspective illustrations. To show or hide the default perspective grid, press Ctrl+Shift+I (Windows) or Command+Shift+I (Mac). You can use the Perspective Grid tool on the toolbar to fine-tune the grid.

Here are some simple instructions to help you start using the perspective grid:

1Create a new document and turn on the perspective grid.

To turn on the perspective grid, press Ctrl+Shift+I (Windows) or Command+Shift+I (Mac).

2Select a shape tool, such as the Ellipse, and click and drag it to create the shape on the perspective grid.

Notice that the shape’s perspective is controlled by the grid.

3Select the Perspective Selection tool.

It’s the hidden tool in the Perspective Grid tool.

4Using the Perspective Selection tool, click and drag the shape to see that it’s adjusted in position and location using the perspective grid.

Note that you can also select and drag the grid itself by using the Perspective Selection tool.

5Choose View→Perspective Grid and then select the type of perspective to apply.

In this step, you further customize your grid and choose other options to make your illustrations more precise.